Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are used to close cavities and restore a decayed tooth to its original shape and contour. In recent times, two types of dental fillings are being widely used, namely composite resin fillings and ceramic or porcelain fillings. Both of them are white fillings and contribute to the aesthetics on top of restoring the functionality of the infected tooth.

Before, metal fillings were used to fill cavities. Metals such as silver amalgam, mercury, and gold were used for this purpose. They were effective in filling cavities.

What are the disadvantages of getting metal fillings?

• Metal fillings would leave an unappealing black appearance on the teeth.
• They had a tendency to expand or contract over time. This would cause the tooth to develop cracks or even fracture.
• Mercury fillings often caused toxic reactions with the enamel and pulp, thereby leading to infections.
• They would be clearly visible if applied to the frontal teeth, unlike ceramic or composite fillings.

Due to all the drawbacks of metal fillings, composite and ceramic fillings are being used to fill cavities. So, what makes them better than metal fillings?

What Makes White Fillings Desirable?

• The most important advantage of white fillings is that they are aesthetically very pleasing.
• They can be made to match the exact translucency and color of the tooth, making them indistinguishable from the natural tooth.
• They cover the cavity completely and establish a perfect seal, thereby preventing further tooth decay.
• They are highly durable.
• They are long-lasting, i.e., ceramic fillings last up to 30 years while composite resin fillings last up to 10 years.
• They do not stain easily. A bright smile can be maintained with regular brushing.
• They are safe and non-reactive with enamel.
• Less amount of natural tooth structure has to be removed for ceramic fillings to be applied.
• They don't need multiple visits. Most often, they are completed in one visit to the dentist's office.